As an orchestra, our collective sound is determined by the effort of every individual in the ensemble, and our ability to prepare a wonderful concert relies on the presence in rehearsal of every musician.
We have a lot of music to learn in a short amount of time, which means each week we are making changes to timing, bowings, articulation and more. When we are missing section members or individual parts, it’s difficult to progress as a group, because we end up spending a large portion of rehearsal time re-learning things we covered in previous rehearsals.
For this reason, we are clarifying our policies around tardiness and attendance.
Rehearsals will always begin on time - this means you should plan to arrive with ample time to unpack, warm up, and be in your seats ready to play at least 5 minutes BEFORE the start of rehearsal. (We recommend arriving at COC at least 15 minutes before the start of rehearsal).
In order to avoid unnecessary disruptions to rehearsal, moving forward we will close the door at the start of rehearsal. Late arrivals will be asked to wait outside for the first 10 minutes of rehearsal, during which time they can unpack their instruments, and get their music, stand and pencil ready to go. 10 minutes after the start of rehearsal, all latecomers will be admitted at once and ask to quickly and quietly take their seats.
Students are allowed a maximum of 3 excused absences per semester. After this point, ensemble directors will initiate a conversation with the student and parents to determine if the student will realistically be prepared to perform in the final concert.
If you plan to be absent, or have to miss a portion of rehearsal, please submit the ONLINE ABSENCE NOTIFICATION FORM at least 24 hours in advance, whenever possible.